(October 13, 2026) Polyether-modified polysiloxane (polyether silicone oil), as an organosilicon surfactant with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties, continues to be widely used in various fields such as polyurethane, coatings, household chemicals, textiles, and agricultural additives, thanks to its low surface tension, excellent spreading ability, and compatibility with different systems. Recent industry reports indicate that the domestic market for polyether silicone oil shows structural differences: general-purpose products are in surplus, while high-value grades with low VOC levels, resistance to acids and alkalis, and low metal ion content are in short supply. The process of replacing imported products with domestic alternatives is accelerating.

Polyether silicone oil combines the advantages of silicone oil and polyether materials through its polyether chain segments in the main polysiloxane linkage. In the field of polyurethane foam, it serves as a key leveling agent, helping to control the structure of the bubbles and improve the uniformity and dimensional stability of the foam. In aqueous coatings and inks, a small amount of this substance can enhance leveling, wetting, and bubble suppression properties, reducing defects such as shrinkage and orange peel on the paint film. In the textile industry, it is used as a hydrophilic and softening agent, improving the texture of fabrics, enhancing moisture absorption and sweat evaporation, and reducing static electricity. In personal care formulations, it contributes to a smooth skin feel and improves emulsification stability. In agriculture, it acts as a spray aid, reducing surface tension of liquid solutions and enhancing the spread and penetration of leaves.

In the past, the domestic market relied heavily on imported high-quality polyether silicone oil, which limited the cost control of downstream new materials. In 2026, many domestic organosilicon companies focused on developing customized synthesis methods and green production processes. By adjusting the length of the polysiloxane chain and the proportion of EO/PO polyether segments, they created customized products for household chemicals, coatings, and new energy slurry wetting applications. New closed-catalytic processes significantly reduce the use of organic solvents and emissions, resulting in lower energy consumption per unit of product. Many of these products meet the standards for green organosilicon materials, aligning with the trend toward low-carbon transformation in fine chemical industries.

Industry analysts believe that as water-based coatings replace solvent-based ones, domestic household chemicals expand their market presence abroad, and new energy material production increases, the demand for high-quality polyether silicone oil will continue to grow over the next three years. Additionally, the implementation of new green evaluation standards for organosilicon products will accelerate the elimination of low-quality production facilities, leading to increased industry concentration. Many leading companies plan to invest in the development of bio-based polyether silicone oil in the second half of the year, using plant-based polyether instead of petroleum-based materials to create biodegradable additives and gain a foothold in the global green material market.

From a market perspective, downstream customers no longer focus solely on basic physical and chemical properties; they have higher demands for products with low environmental impact, minimal odor, batch stability, and compliance certifications. Domestic manufacturers are shifting from simply providing goods to offering collaborative formulation services, helping coatings, household chemicals, and polyurethane manufacturers to develop customized formulations, thereby narrowing the gap with foreign giants.

Looking ahead, as a multifunctional additive, the application scope of polyether silicone oil is still expanding. Emerging fields such as precision cleaning in semiconductors and wetting in lithium battery coatings will become new growth areas. With the full advantage of the organosilicon industry chain, domestic polyether silicone oil is expected to achieve breakthroughs in high-quality grades, reducing the dependence of the domestic manufacturing industry on external suppliers.